Widely recognised as one of the most beautiful theatres in Ireland, Theatre Royal Waterford recently celebrated the anniversary of the date that it first opened on the 26th July 1784.
Exactly 240 years later, on the 26th July 2024, the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Jason Murphy, along with theatre management and staff, board members, supporters and friends, gathered in the theatre to mark the occasion. Those present enjoyed a historical tour, curated and led by Lynn Cahill, which recalled key moments in the history of the theatre from its foundation to the present day. This was followed by extracts of ‘As You Like It’ presented by Joe Meagher and Cillian Jacob, a very appropriate choice given that ‘As You Like It’ was performed on the stage of the Theatre Royal on its opening night, 240 years ago.
The anniversary gathering recalled some of those who gave of their time and energy over the years to ensure the theatre survived and thrived, recalling names such as Dan Gallagher, Larry Fanning, Eamon Flavin and Jo Moylan. People with long associations with the theatre both onstage and offstage were talked about, such as Anna and Des Manahan, Larry Quinn, Denny Corcoran, Brian Flynn and Jim Nolan to name just a few.
Documenting the history of the Theatre Royal Waterford is a work in progress and much information has been gathered from newspaper archives. Details of the opening night of the theatre in 1784 was reported in several Irish newspapers, including the Belfast Mercury, which recorded that the evening began with a short comedy act from London ‘The Citizen’, followed by orchestral numbers from Mr. Charles Clagett and his orchestra from Dublin. The audience were then entertained by extracts from Shakespeare’s As You Like It, while top of the bill was the renowned soprano Mrs. Elizabeth Billington.
The opening night in 1784 was a momentous occasion in Waterford, with over 1,000 people inside the fabulous new Georgian Playhouse on the Mall. Since then, the Theatre Royal has undergone major renovations and restoration works, and through the centuries, it has witnessed famine, fire and revolution. Over the years, thousands of performers have taken to the stage to entertain the citizens of Waterford. Many people will have wonderful memories of taking part in productions such as Tops of the Town, or seeing award winning musicals at the Waterford International Festival of Light Opera. In more recent years, the theatre has played a significant part in showcasing the best of local, national and international talent, and is now considered to be the premier venue in the South East for theatre, live music, comedy and entertainment.
Speaking at the event, the Mayor noted “This historic anniversary is an opportunity to appreciate the wealth of cultural activity that has taken place in Waterford over many years. And as we reflect on the past, we also look to the future. For example, this week, a group of local and national artists have been working here with Rough Magic Theatre Company on developing new theatre scripts. This 240 year old theatre, the ‘People’s Theatre’ as it’s also known, is a thriving centre of creativity and entertainment, and is the beating heart of Waterford’s social and cultural life.”
Chair of the board of the Theatre Royal Gabrielle Cummins acknowledged the significant relationship and support that the theatre consistently receives from Waterford City and County Council. She went on to thank the current and former board members for the enormous voluntary contribution they have made over the years. She also thanked the theatre management and staff, led by Theatre Director Mary Boland, for their continuing dedication and hard work in making the Theatre Royal the thriving cultural hub that it is today.
The anniversary celebrations will continue with Live at the Royal on Sunday 6th October, curated by Jamie Beamish and Wayne Browne. This unique event will include a wealth of well-known local performers, with tributes to Waterford theatre legends who have passed. This unmissable journey down memory lane will recall classic moments in the annals of live performance at Theatre Royal, such as the Tops of the Town, the musical society heyday of the 80s & 90s, and the premiere of Jim Nolan’s ‘The Gods Are Angry, Miss Kerr’. Keep an eye on the website and social media for ticket announcements.
Happy Anniversary Theatre Royal Waterford, here’s to the next 240 years!
